If you’re a teacher, IT specialist, hospitality manager, construction engineer, or agricultural expert dreaming of working abroad, Vietnam could be your next career adventure. With a booming economy, affordable lifestyle, and growing demand for skilled professionals, the country welcomes foreign talent with open arms.
Whether you’re looking for a short-term project or a long-term position, understanding Vietnam’s work visa process is key to turning this dream into reality.
Work in Vietnam:
Vietnam offers multiple advantages for foreign workers:
- Affordable lifestyle: Living costs are lower than in many Asian countries.
- High demand for skilled professionals: IT, teaching, hospitality, construction, and agriculture sectors have growing opportunities.
- Gateway to Asia: Working in Vietnam opens doors to nearby markets like Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Work Visa Rules:
The Vietnamese government introduced reforms to simplify the work visa process:
- One-step application: Employers submit a single form for your work permit.
- Local approval: Provincial offices now handle permits, reducing processing times.
- Faster decisions: Approvals within 10 working days; rejections provided in writing within 3 days.
- Job posting requirement: Companies must advertise positions locally for 15 days before hiring foreign employees.
Who Does Not Need a Work Permit?
Certain foreign nationals are exempt:
- Individuals staying less than 90 days in a year.
- Company owners, investors, or board members.
- Experts or managers in high-tech or innovation fields.
Documents Required:
To apply for a work permit in Vietnam, you generally need:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Job contract with a Vietnamese company
- Health certificate and police clearance
- Proof of qualifications and work experience
Work Visa and Permit Processing Time:
processing times:
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Approval to recruit foreign workers | 15 working days |
| Issuance of work permit | 5 working days |
| Total processing time | ~20 working days |
Tip: Start the process at least 30 days before your employment start date to avoid delays.
Check Also: Vietnam Plans to Extend Visa-Free Entry to More Countries
Types of Work Visas:
| Visa Type | Who It’s For | Requires Work Permit? |
|---|---|---|
| LĐ1 | Exempt professionals under law or treaties | No |
| LĐ2 | International employees needing a work permit | Yes |
| DN1 | Foreigners working with registered enterprises | Yes |
| DN2 | Foreigners providing services or operating under international treaties | Yes |
Vietnam Skilled Worker Visa:
The Vietnam skilled worker visa allows qualified professionals to work in the country for specific industries or roles. Applicants must meet skill requirements and provide relevant documentation to secure long-term employment.
Vietnam Expat Work Visa:
Vietnam expat work visa is designed for foreign professionals seeking to live and work in Vietnam. It offers legal permission to work while enjoying the benefits of living in a vibrant and growing economy.
Vietnam Professional Visa:
The Vietnam professional visa targets individuals with specialized skills or expertise. This visa ensures that highly trained professionals can contribute to Vietnam’s economic development while complying with local regulations.
Vietnam Job Visa Application:
Vietnam job visa application involves submitting necessary documents, such as employment contracts and proof of qualifications. The process ensures that foreign workers are legally authorized to work in the country.
Vietnam Long-Term Work Visa:
Vietnam long-term work visa provides extended residency for foreign employees. It is ideal for professionals engaged in long-term projects or permanent positions with Vietnamese companies.
Vietnam Employment Visa:
Vietnam employment visa grants permission to foreigners to work legally within the country. Employers often sponsor this visa, ensuring compliance with local labor and immigration laws.
Vietnam Business Visa:
Vietnam business visa is suitable for foreign investors, business owners, or professionals attending meetings and managing operations. It allows short-term or long-term business activities without the restrictions of a standard tourist visa.
Work Visa Cost:
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single-entry (1 month) | $25 |
| Single-entry (3 months) | $25 |
| Multiple-entry (1 month) | $50 |
| Multiple-entry (3 months) | $50 |
| Multiple-entry (6 months) | $95 |
| Multiple-entry (12 months) | $135 |
Note: Fees are official government charges. Employers may have additional service fees if sponsoring the visa.
Who Needs a Work Permit?
Foreign nationals working in Vietnam for more than 3 months must obtain a work permit. This usually applies to:
- Experts and managers
- Technical workers employed by Vietnamese enterprises
Exemptions:
- Work duration less than 3 months
- Company owners or board members
- Lawyers with Vietnamese professional permits
Age Limit and Eligibility:
Applicants must meet these requirements:
- Age: At least 18 years old
- Health: Fit for work with a valid health certificate
- Legal standing: No criminal record in Vietnam or home country
- Qualifications: Relevant professional certificates and work experience
Vietnam E-Visa:
Vietnam also offers a short-term e-visa option:
- Official website: Vietnam e-visa portal
- Validity: Usually 30 days, single entry
- Eligibility: Citizens of approved countries
- Important: E-visas are mainly for tourism or short business trips. Full-time employment requires a proper work visa.
Work Permit Renewal:
- Validity: Up to 2 years
- Renewal: Can be extended once for another 2 years with updated documentation
- Processing time: Around 5 working days
- Tip: Submit renewal applications before expiration to avoid legal gaps
Tips for Employers Hiring in Vietnam:
- Stay updated on labor and immigration laws
- Start applications early to avoid delays
- Provide cultural and workplace orientation for foreign employees
- Consider outsourcing visa compliance to specialized services or Employer of Record (EOR) platforms
Conclusion:
Vietnam offers skilled professionals a fast, affordable, and career-growing destination in 2026. With simplified visa rules, clear eligibility, and multiple work visa options, obtaining a permit is easier than ever. Proper preparation ensures a smooth, legal, and rewarding work experience in this vibrant country.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Can a work visa be renewed?
Yes, work permits are usually valid up to 2 years and can be renewed once for another 2 years with updated documentation. Renewal processing takes around 5 working days.
-
Can I apply for an e-visa instead?
E-visas are mainly for tourism or short-term business trips (30 days, single entry). Full-time employment still requires a proper work visa.
-
Who needs a Vietnam work visa?
Any foreign national planning to work in Vietnam for more than 3 months. This includes experts, managers, and technical employees. Short-term work under 90 days may be exempt.
